Tension Tips

Setting the Tension

  • Twist the tension knob clockwise until the spring begins to compress.

  • Ensure the leader is straight and aligned with the orifice hook, guided along the outside pegs.

  • Adjust tension in small increments (¼ turn at a time) as the bobbin fills, since fuller bobbins reduce braking pressure and increase treadling resistance.

  • For ultrafine or short-staple fibers, consider removing the tension block entirely for better control.

Increasing Tension (If Yarn Isn't Taking Up)

Turn the tension knob ¼ turn clockwise until the yarn begins to draw in properly.

Check that:

  • The bobbin is securely locked into the magnet at the back of the flyer.

  • The magnet is firmly attached to the flyer rod.

  • The orifice bar is properly locked onto the flyer magnets.

  • The flyer rod is correctly inserted into the orifice bar.

  • The yarn hasn’t jumped off pegs, wrapped twice around the hook, or caught on anything.

Decreasing Tension (For Fine Spinning)

  • Turn the knob counterclockwise in ¼-turn increments, as even small changes matter.

  • For easier fine spinning:

  • Use a half-full bobbin.

  • Lace the yarn 2–3 times across flyer arms to reduce draw-in.

Troubleshooting Tension Problems

Remove and inspect the tension block; replace the felt if worn. Rotate the tension block 180 degrees for better performance.

Recheck:

  • Bobbin attachment to the magnet

  • Orifice bar alignment with flyer magnets

  • Yarn position (not wrapped around hook or stuck on a peg)

  • Avoid pushing yarn onto the bobbin, as this may cause it to wrap around the hook

  • Always spin directly in front of the orifice, not from an angle

Addressing General Spinning Issues

Reduce tension and switch to a lower ratio (larger whorl) to ease effort.

Look for obstructions under the treadles or near the drive wheel.

Make sure the drive band is correctly seated in the groove on the flyer.

On Hopper wheels: adjust seat height or sit closer to improve ergonomics.

On accelerated wheels (e.g., Bee, Pollywog, 4A Flyer): smallest ratios are hardest to treadle—switch to the lowest ratio briefly to stretch the band.

For smoother treadling: start slowly and build up speed gradually.

On non-golden whorl models: spply silicone-based lubricant to the shaft and flyer bearings. Treadle without spinning for a while to let lubricant take effect.